The defender became a United legend during his time with the club, forming a world class partnership with Rio Ferdinand in the centre of defence in a team that won Premier League titles and the Champions League.

He made 300 appearances in all competitions during a nine year spell before joining Inter Milan in 2014.

Nemanja Vidic at Manchester United

He proved to be one the best signings of Sir Alex Ferguson’s time in charge, but he has revealed he nearly ended up at rivals Liverpool.

“Yes. Rafa Benitez called me and I nearly went there. I was interested in going,” he told FourFourTwo.

“Then Manchester United came. Fergie called me at my apartment and said: ‘I watched you play for Serbia against France - I want you here’. United were decisive. Everything was done very quickly, within two days.”

Nemanja Vidic at Manchester United

Vidic’s revelation will not come as good news to Liverpool fans, who would have liked to see Vidic starring at Anfield given his performances for their rivals.

Indeed, central defence has been a major issue for them for a number of years, but that wouldn’t have been the case had they been able to partner Vidic with Jamie Carragher.

Instead they must dream of what could have been had Rafa Benitez been more decisive than his old rival Sir Alex Ferguson.

Rafa Benitez unveiled as Liverpool manager

Sean Lunt

Sean Lunt is a Journalism and Spanish graduate with a passion for football. As an avid Everton fan he has survived the Walter Smith era, enjoyed the resurgence under David Moyes and is now wholly embracing the Spanish revolution with Roberto Martinez. Away from Everton he follows the rest of the football league and has a particular interest in La Liga.